Over the past nine months of construction, the pool deck was completely hidden from the public’s view as a tent-like scaffolding with tarp was erected over the entire pool area to ensure the pool basin remained dry while crews performed the upgrades.

Work conducted on the pool included: the replacement of gas powered pumps with an electric pump to replenish seawater and dewater the pool; the removal and replacement of the pool basin membrane, including caulking and gutter repair; and the repair of the pool deck structure, including control joints that seal the pool.

This was Kitsilano Pool’s most extensive upgrade in decades, and the new equipment will significantly reduce the need to use potable water to replenish the pool. This means the water will feel (and taste) saltier for an improved swimming experience.

Previously, about 1.63 million litres of potable water per month was used to fill the pool, which is enough water to fill an Olympic-sized pool to about 65% full.

The original Kitsilano Pool was completed in 1931, and it was entirely rebuilt in 1979 with the current heated structure, which spans 137 metres in length – nearly three times longer than an Olympic-sized pool.

Funding for the latest renovation project was mostly provided by the municipal government, and a further $500,000 was allocated by the federal government.